The Remarkable Health Benefits Of Weight Training For Dogs
There are a number of health benefits of weight training for dogs, including improved joint health, increased lifespan, and improved behavior.
Weight training for dogs has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more owners are looking for ways to keep their dogs healthy and active, and to address or prevent behavioral issues.
We believe in training for state of mind & tapping into the instincts of the breed. For a dog who needs a job, who is athletic without enough physical activity, or dogs who simply need to be fulfilled in new ways — weight training can be excellent.
There are a number of different ways to incorporate weight training into your dog’s routine, including using a dog backpack, dog weights, or dog weight pulling.
If you are looking for ways to keep your dog healthy and active, weight training is a great option.
Dogs of all shapes and sizes can benefit from weight training
Weight training is a great way to keep your dog healthy and active, regardless of its size or breed. Smaller dogs may benefit from weight training more than larger breeds, as it can help to increase their lifespan and protect their delicate joints. Larger dogs may also benefit from weight training, as it can help to improve their cardiovascular health and build strong bones and muscles.
Weight training can improve your dog's flexibility and range of motion
Weight training can help to improve your dog's flexibility and range of motion, which is important for keeping them healthy and active. Flexibility and range of motion are important for all dogs, but they are especially important for older dogs, as they can help to prevent injuries and improve joint health. Weight training can also help to increase your dog's energy levels, which is important for keeping them active and healthy.
Weight training can help your dog maintain a healthy weight
Weight training can help your dog maintain a healthy weight, as it can help to increase their metabolism and burn calories. A healthy weight is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for larger breeds, as obesity can lead to a number of health problems, including joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease.
Weight training can improve your dog's cardiovascular health
Weight training can also help to improve your dog's cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular exercise is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for larger breeds, as they are more at risk for developing heart disease. Weight training can help to increase your dog's heart rate and improve their circulation, which is important for keeping their heart healthy.
Weight training can help your dog build strong bones and muscles
Weight training can help your dog build strong bones and muscles, which is important for their overall health. Strong bones and muscles are important for all dogs, but they are especially important for larger breeds, as they are more at risk for developing joint problems. Weight training can also help to improve your dog's coordination and balance, which is important for preventing injuries.
Weight training can improve your dog's behavior and state of mind.
Weight training can also help to improve your dog's mental health. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and improve your dog's mood, and weight training is a great form of exercise. Weight training can help to increase your dog's endorphins, which are natural mood boosters.
Back Pack Training Your Dog
Get a full physical work up for your dog as needed with your veterinarian to be sure you are clear to to start working your dog in this way!
Start walking and include an empty backpack on your dog. Condition them to wear the item and get used to walking if you have been a bit sedentary lately.
After a few days of acclimation, add a small water bottle for big dogs or a few pebbles for the little ones. Start with about 2-3% of your dog’s body weight distributed equally on both sides.
Every week or so increase the weight until you total about 10%-15% of their body weight. Do Not Exceed 10-15% body weight as this is carried directly on your dog’s back. If you need more oomph, move to a weight-pull harness.
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Weight Pull Training For Dogs
Ideal for Bully Breeds, Huskies, Shepherds, and other working dog breeds. But it can benefit any dog. You’ll see them light up with surprise and interest the first time you put a harness on them and drag chains behind them. That first notion of taking off on their walk and feeling resistance for the first time is amazing. Some of these dogs will absolutely thrive in the feeling of power & resistance. This is where magic can happen… they have to work, they have to use their body, they engage muscles never used before, and they release the pent-up anxiety and boredom. It’s special to watch.
While this may feel like a sport for your dog — and it is — it’s actually a great enrichment activity for the two of you. Trust me the pride your dog will have in this will be powerful for you both!
Get a proper weight pull harness that distributes the weight across your dog’s body properly and allows for chains or a sled to be clipped on behind your dog. The weight in this case is not on your dog’s body but behind them
Start with low weight — approximately 2-3% of your dog’s body weight and make a gradual build in weight as your dog’s physical capabilities increase.
You can get some chains cut at the local hardware with a couple of high-quality carabiners to use as attachments. This gives you the ability to change out the weight of the chain as needed.
In time you may be able to move to old tires or a sled.
Seek out a local weight-pull club near you to get started with some of the more competitive sports!
If you’re embarrassed — don’t be — but if you must just let them pull around your yard or go a take a hike together.
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So, what are you waiting for? Start weight training your dog today!
So, what are you waiting for? Start weight training your dog today! Weight training is a great way to keep your dog healthy and active, and there are a number of benefits, both physical and mental. If you are looking for ways to improve your dog's health, weight training is a great option.